Bagtown Clans

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Clan Nicolson Crest

Clan Nicolson Crest
Clan Nicolson Crest
CREST: A lion issuant Or armed and langued Gules
MOTTO: Generositate
TRANSLATION: By generosity
VARIATIONS: N/A
Clan Nicolson’s story begins with its roots firmly planted in both Norse and Gaelic heritage. The clan’s name, Nicolson, is believed to be derived from “Nic,” meaning “daughter of” in Gaelic, and “Olsen,” a Norse personal name. This intriguing blend of Norse and Gaelic influences mirrors the diverse historical connections that shaped Scotland’s cultural mosaic.

Heraldry played a significant role in distinguishing clans, and Clan Nicolson is no exception. The clan chief bore a gold shield charged with the heads of birds of prey – red hawks for Macneacail and red falcons for Nicolson. This shared symbol hinted at a connection with the Nicholsons of that Ilk, although genealogical evidence to support this link remains scarce.

Clan Nicolson Crest
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The Norse Vikings left an indelible mark on the Scottish coasts and islands through raids and conquests. Haakon IV, the last Norse King to invade Scotland, sent his foster brother Anders Nichoassen as part of an advance party. Nichoassen plundered Bute and later settled in Scotland after diplomatic missions. This fascinating story highlights the intricate interactions between Viking invaders and the Scottish landscape.

Throughout history, individuals from Clan Nicolson emerged as significant figures, leaving their imprint on various fields. James Nicolson, a lawyer in Edinburgh, made his mark in the legal realm and left a notable legacy. James Nicolson, the Bishop of Dunkeld, played a pivotal role in the ecclesiastical landscape during his short tenure. The clan’s involvement in law, religion, and diplomacy showcases their diverse contributions to Scottish society.

The passage of time did not diminish Clan Nicolson’s identity. The clan’s lineage continued through the centuries, with various branches, baronetcies, and inheritances shaping its story. The establishment of different titles, such as the Baronetcy of Carnock and the Baron Carnock of Carnock, added layers to the clan’s narrative.

In 1985, the Clan Nicolson received a momentous recognition. The fourth Lord Carnock, who inherited multiple titles, was recognized as Nicholson of that Ilk, the chief of Clan Nicolson, by the Lord Lyon, King of Arms. This acknowledgment solidified the clan’s place in Scottish history and heraldry.

Citations:

  • Descriptive catalogue of the clan tartans and family tartans of Scotland with a brief note on their antiquity: also roll of the landlords and Baillies of lands in the Highlands and isles, A.D. 1587: roll of the clans; badges of the clans, John Catto and Company, King Street, Toronto, Canada
  • Scottish Clan & Family Encyclopedia”, by Collins, HarperCollins Publishers 1994